Himalayan Honeysuckle. An upright shrub with sunny yellow foliage with reddish new growth. Dark purple-red bracts and long, pendulous flowers followed by purple-black berries. Height and Spread 2m. Flowers July to September. Fruits August. Full sun/partial shade. Hardy.
Leycesteria formosa ‘Golden Lanterns’ is a striking deciduous shrub grown for its vibrant golden foliage, attractive reddish new growth, elegant hanging flowers, and ornamental berries, making it an excellent feature for mixed borders and wildlife-friendly gardens.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: Plant Leycesteria formosa ‘Golden Lanterns’ in spring when the soil is workable and beginning to warm, allowing roots to establish before active growth begins.
Early Autumn: Early autumn is also an excellent time to plant, giving the root system time to settle before dormancy.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Leycesteria formosa ‘Golden Lanterns’ thrives in full sun or partial shade. A bright position will enhance the golden foliage while partial shade helps maintain vibrant leaf colour.
Soil: Fertile, moisture-retentive, well-drained soil is ideal. Incorporate compost or well-rotted organic matter before planting to improve soil structure and retain consistent moisture.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball so the roots have plenty of room to spread.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the excavated soil to enrich it and improve moisture retention while maintaining good drainage.
Planting: Position Leycesteria formosa ‘Golden Lanterns’ so the top of the root ball sits level with the surrounding soil, then backfill gently and firm lightly.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and encourage strong root establishment.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Keep the soil evenly moist while the shrub establishes, watering more frequently during prolonged dry spells.
Established Plants: Once established, Leycesteria formosa ‘Golden Lanterns’ benefits from occasional deep watering during extended periods without rainfall.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to encourage healthy foliage, strong stems, and abundant flowering.
Mid-Season: A light supplementary feed can help Leycesteria formosa ‘Golden Lanterns’ maintain vigorous growth throughout the flowering period.
Pruning
Seasonal Pruning: Remove dead, damaged, or weak stems in early spring before new growth begins.
Shaping: Lightly prune after flowering if required to maintain a neat shape and encourage healthy new shoots.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a generous layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil quality.
Later in the Year: Replenish mulch as needed, ensuring it remains clear of the main stems to promote good air circulation.
Supporting the Plant
Natural Habit: Leycesteria formosa ‘Golden Lanterns’ has an upright, arching habit and generally does not require staking, although young plants may benefit from shelter in particularly exposed locations.
Final Tips
Leycesteria formosa ‘Golden Lanterns’ is an easy-care shrub that offers season-long interest through its colourful foliage, unusual flowers, and decorative berries. With fertile, well-drained soil, regular watering during establishment, and light annual pruning, your Leycesteria will provide years of outstanding garden performance.
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